Detectives from the Financial and Cyber Crime Group (FCCG) have charged two men as part of a money laundering investigation targeting an organised criminal network operating across South East Queensland.
The investigation, Operation Yankee Thundercat, commenced in January 2026 to investigate activity linked to an alleged money laundering syndicate. Investigators allege the syndicate laundered approximately $259,000 through a range of methods designed to conceal the movement and origin of criminal proceeds, including cash dead drops, structured cash deposits through ATMs, mule bank accounts and cryptocurrency.
On 20 July, detectives from the Money Laundering Unit, with assistance from the Cyber Crime Unit, Coomera Criminal Investigation Branch and Dog Squad, executed search warrants at Upper Coomera and Nerang.
During the searches, police located approximately $23,000 cash, mobile phones, computers and electronic devices, financial documentation, and clothing.
A 33-year-old man and a 38-year-old man were arrested and charged with one count each of conduct in relation to proceeds of general crime worth $100,000 or more. They were bailed to appear at the Southport Magistrate Court on 3 August 2026.
Detective Superintendent Craig McGrath from the Financial and Cyber Crime Group said police will target money laundering networks and organised crime at every level.
“Money laundering enables organised crime groups to profit from illegal activity and presents a significant threat to the community,” Detective Superintendent McGrath said.
“Money laundering is not a victimless crime. Every dollar laundered helps fund activities such as drug trafficking, cybercrime, fraud, exploitation and other serious criminal offending.
Queensland Police Service are supporting Crime Stoppers Australia’s national anti-money laundering awareness campaign Money Trap. The national awareness campaign highlights how organised crime groups exploit individuals through fake job offers, social media and online approaches to move illicit funds, often without victims fully understanding their involvement in criminal activity. To learn more visit Money Trap – Crime Stoppers Australia
